Braces for Alleviating Compression and Methods of Making and Using the Same

ABSTRACT

A brace including (i) two or more supports configured to contact body parts on opposite sides or ends of one or more joints when the brace is in use and (ii) one or more force application mechanisms that apply a controllable force to the supports in opposite directions to alleviate compression in the one or more joints is disclosed. Methods of manufacturing the brace and of alleviating compression in one or more joints using the brace are also disclosed.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION(S)

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional PatentApplication No. 62/625,977, filed on Feb. 3, 2018, incorporated hereinby reference as if fully set forth herein.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention generally relates to the field of medical braces,especially for body parts and joints. More specifically, embodiments ofthe present invention pertain to a brace that applies a force inopposite directions along or across the body part or joint and that canbe adjusted to alleviate pain or discomfort, and methods of making andusing the same.

DISCUSSION OF THE BACKGROUND

Joint pain is a problem for many people due to deterioration of orinjury to a joint in the human body over time. A main cause of jointpain and joint deterioration is the compression of the cartilaginousmaterial in the joint. While the deleterious effects of jointcompression may be inevitable, everyday activities like manual labor,playing sports, and simply gravity can exacerbate the condition.

A common, minimally invasive way to treat joint pathology is through theuse of a brace. Braces may be fastened around an appendage or the torso.For example, a brace may be fastened around or secured to the arm totreat elbow pain or injury. A different brace may be fastened around orsecured to the leg to treat knee pain or injury, and still another bracemay be fastened around or secured to the torso to treat pain or injuryalong the spine. Most braces for joints are designed to fit tightlyaround a particular joint. While this design may stabilize a weak joint,it may also further compress the joint. Therefore, traditional bracesmay not relieve joint pain or prevent further joint degeneration as muchas desired, due at least in part to joint and/or cartilage compression.

Currently, there are not many widely-practiced treatments other thansurgery for alleviation of joint pain that focus on ways to relievejoint compression or reverse the forces that lead to or cause jointcompression. This is particularly challenging because normal activitiessuch as walking and sitting upright, along with gravity, naturally keepsmost joints and the cartilage in these joints in a state of constantcompression. For instance, a major cause of back pain is the compressionof the vertebral discs that act as shock absorbers between spinal bones.

This “Discussion of the Background” section is provided for backgroundinformation only. The statements in this “Discussion of the Background”are not an admission that the subject matter disclosed in this“Discussion of the Background” section constitutes prior art to thepresent disclosure, and no part of this “Discussion of the Background”section may be used as an admission that any part of this application,including this “Discussion of the Background” section, constitutes priorart to the present disclosure.

SUMMARY OF INVENTION

Relieving the tension and compression on joints advantageously lessenspain, increases mobility, and reduces joint deterioration over time.Decreasing the pressure on the discs between bones in the spineadvantageously alleviates back pain and can be a long-term solution toboth back pain and decreased mobility of the spine.

The present invention pertains to an apparatus that is worn around atorso, knee, elbow, neck, etc., that utilizes opposing forces applied tosupports along, or on either side of, a joint or body part to reduce orrelieve joint compression and oppose the force of gravity. This reducesjoint compression and decreases tension in or on the joint. As thejoints are decompressed through the use of the present brace over time,joint pain may decrease and mobility may increase. The present apparatusmay provide a long-term solution for many people who suffer chronicjoint pain due to joint compression. The present apparatus may also beused preventatively by people who anticipate joint pain in the future,as it may slow joint degeneration in individuals at risk for developingcertain types of joint disease (e.g., arthritis).

Many braces are bulky and/or cumbersome, while providing insufficient orminimal relief to the joints they target. The present inventionadvantageously provides greater relief to the targeted joint(s) throughthe use of springs or other mechanisms that apply opposing forces tosupports on opposite sides of the targeted joint(s), and that can beadjusted (e.g., by the user) to achieve greater comfort. The presentbrace is generally less bulky than traditional braces, enabling dailyuse, during a multitude of activities. Individuals with chronic backpain, athletes, and those who spend long hours at a desk or driving avehicle may find long-term relief from use of the present brace.

In particular, the present invention relates to a brace comprising twoor more supports and one or more force application mechanisms that applya controllable force to the supports in opposite directions. Thesupports are configured to contact body parts on opposite sides or endsof one or more joints when the brace is in use. The controllable forcealleviates compression in the joint(s).

In some embodiments, the force application mechanism(s) comprise aplurality of springs or coils coupled to or connected between (i) atleast a first one of the supports on a first side or end of the joint(s)and (ii) at least a second one of the supports on a second side or endof the joint(s), opposite from the first side or end. The apparatus mayfurther comprise a tension control mechanism configured to change ormaintain a tension of each of the coils or springs. The coils attach toa central eyelet which acts as an anchor.

In one set of examples, the tension control mechanism comprises one ormore wires or cables through the springs or coils (in parallel and/or inseries), and at least one knob or strap operably connected to thewire(s) or cable(s). Each knob or strap is configured to control alength of the wire(s) or cable(s). When two or more wires or cables arethrough the springs or coils, the wires or cables may run through thesprings or in parallel and/or in series. In a brace configured torelieve compression on the spine, there may be first and second knobs oneach side of the abdominal area. The knobs are configured to control thetension of the coils or springs (e.g., to the wearer's comfort level).Alternatively, the tension control mechanism may comprise one or moreactuators configured to change or maintain a length of at least one ofthe springs, and a motor operably connected to and configured to controla position of the corresponding actuator(s).

The apparatus may further comprise a cover configured to secure aposition of each of the supports in the brace. The cover may be furtherconfigured to enclose the force application mechanism(s) (e.g., thesprings or coils). Enclosing the force application mechanism(s) mayprotect both (i) the wearer from potential injury and (ii) the forceapplication mechanism(s) from potential damage. The apparatus also mayfurther comprise a cushion or padding covering at least part of each ofthe supports, and optionally, enclosed by the cover. The cushion orpadding may be configured to distribute the controllable force across alarger area of the body part(s) contacted by a corresponding support.

The present brace may be adapted for use on a person's back (e.g.,stylized as a vest), knee or elbow (e.g., stylized as a sleeve), neck(e.g., stylized as a collar), etc. In the vest, there may be two supportregions, one around the waist (which may be covered by or which mayoverlap with a belt configured to fasten, tighten and/or secure the vestaround the person's waist), and a second one under the arms (e.g.,around the thorax). The cover may comprise one or more differentmaterials, such as poly(para-phenylene terephthalamide) (e.g., KEVLAR®,commercially available from E. I. du Pont de Nemours and Company,Wilmington, Del.) or graphene (e.g., for military applications),neoprene (e.g., for waterproofing), polytetrafluoroethylene (e.g.,GORE-TEX®, commercially available from W. L. Gore & Associates, Inc.,Newark, Del.; for use in wet or humid climates), Spandex (for aclose/snug fit), etc. The brace may further include a heating mechanism(e.g., one or more resistive wires and a source of electrical power,such as a battery), a massaging mechanism (e.g., a disc or orbconfigured to rotate around an offset axis and a motor configured torotate the disc or orb), sealable pockets (e.g., in which to place oneor more cold packs for cryotherapy), etc.

These and other advantages of the present invention will become readilyapparent from the detailed description of various embodiments below.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 shows an exemplary vest brace, in accordance with embodiments ofthe present invention.

FIG. 2 is a diagram of an exemplary coil mechanism suitable for use inthe exemplary vest of FIG. 1, in accordance with one or more embodimentsof the present invention.

FIG. 3A shows an overlay of a simplified version of the exemplary vestbrace shown in FIG. 1 on a human skeleton, indicating the placement ofthe coils within the vest, in accordance with one or more embodiments ofthe present invention.

FIG. 3B shows an overlay of a more complex version of the exemplary vestbrace on a human skeleton, in accordance with one or more embodiments ofthe present invention.

FIG. 4 shows a smart phone displaying an exemplary app that allows forremote control and/or programming of the brace, in accordance with oneor more embodiments of the present invention.

FIGS. 5A-D show exemplary hardware for the remotely controllable and/orprogrammable brace, in accordance with one or more embodiments of thepresent invention.

FIG. 6 shows an exemplary elbow brace, in accordance with one or moreembodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 7 shows an exemplary knee brace, in accordance with one or moreembodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 8 shows an exemplary wrist brace, in accordance with one or moreembodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 9 shows an exemplary ankle brace, in accordance with one or moreembodiments of the present invention.

FIGS. 10A-B show an exemplary neck brace, in accordance with one or moreembodiments of the present invention.

FIGS. 11A-B show an exemplary mechanism for modifying the compression ona set of springs or coils in accordance with one or more embodiments ofthe present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Reference will now be made in detail to various embodiments of theinvention, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanyingdrawings. While the invention will be described in conjunction with thefollowing embodiments, it will be understood that the descriptions arenot intended to limit the invention to these embodiments. On thecontrary, the invention is intended to cover alternatives, modificationsand equivalents that may be included within the spirit and scope of theinvention as defined by the appended claims. Furthermore, in thefollowing detailed description, numerous specific details are set forthin order to provide a thorough understanding of the present invention.However, it will be readily apparent to one skilled in the art that thepresent invention may be practiced without these specific details. Inother instances, well-known methods, procedures, components, andcircuits have not been described in detail so as not to unnecessarilyobscure aspects of the present invention.

The technical proposal(s) of embodiments of the present invention willbe fully and clearly described in conjunction with the drawings in thefollowing embodiments. It will be understood that the descriptions arenot intended to limit the invention to these embodiments. Based on thedescribed embodiments of the present invention, other embodiments can beobtained by one skilled in the art without creative contribution and arein the scope of legal protection given to the present invention.

Furthermore, all characteristics, measures or processes disclosed inthis document, except characteristics and/or processes that are mutuallyexclusive, can be combined in any manner and in any combinationpossible. Any characteristic disclosed in the present specification,claims, Abstract and Figures can be replaced by other equivalentcharacteristics or characteristics with similar objectives, purposesand/or functions, unless specified otherwise. Furthermore, it should beunderstood that the possible permutations and combinations describedherein are not meant to limit the invention. Specifically, variationsthat are not inconsistent may be mixed and matched as desired.

The terms “vest,” “brace,” and “vest brace” may be used interchangeablybut these terms are also generally given their art-recognized meanings.In addition, the terms “part,” “portion,” and “region” may be usedinterchangeably but these terms are also generally given theirart-recognized meanings. Furthermore, the terms “connected to,” “inconnection with,” and grammatical variations thereof include both directand direct connections, unless the context of its use clearly indicatesotherwise. Also, unless indicated otherwise from the context of its useherein, the terms “known,” “fixed,” “given,” “certain” and“predetermined” generally refer to a value, quantity, parameter,constraint, condition, state, process, procedure, method, practice, orcombination thereof that is, in theory, variable, but is typically setin advance and not varied thereafter when in use.

The term “length” generally refers to the largest dimension of a given3-dimensional structure or feature. The term “width” generally refers tothe second largest dimension of a given 3-dimensional structure orfeature. The term “thickness” generally refers to a smallest dimensionof a given 3-dimensional structure or feature. The length and the width,or the width and the thickness, may be the same in some cases.

An Exemplary Vest Brace

FIG. 1 shows an exemplary vest brace 10 designed to be worn over aperson's torso. The material 20 of the vest brace 10 may be specific toa particular use or embodiment of the vest brace 10. Examples ofsuitable materials 20 include Kevlar®, neoprene, canvas, cotton,acrylic, Spandex, etc. The vest brace 10 includes an upper supportregion 22 that secures an upper support around the wearer's upper torso(e.g., under the arms). The upper support region 22 may be defined bystitching above and below the upper support to secure the upper supportto the vest brace 10. Alternatively, the upper support may be secured tothe vest brace 10 using adhesive, rivets, pins, other fasteners,combination(s) thereof, etc. The upper support region may furtherinclude one or more pockets or compartments sewn onto the front of thevest brace 10. However, such pockets or compartments may be locatedelsewhere in the vest brace 10 (e.g., generally on or in the front orsides of the vest brace 10) and/or may be formed or attached to vestbrace 10 by other techniques (e.g., using rivets, staples, hook-and-loopfasteners, etc.).

The vest brace 10 includes a belt or strap 40 that fastens the vestbrace 10 around the wearer's abdomen. The belt or strap 40 can be fedthrough a buckle 42 and secured to itself by a hook-and-loop (e.g.,Velcro®) fastener, but other fastening and/or tightening mechanisms arealso possible, such as a prong that inserts into a hole, a plasticbuckle with fins, etc. Alternatively, the vest brace 10 may includestrings or laces (e.g., that may be tied) to secure the vest brace 10 tothe wearer's body. The belt or strap 40 may overlap and/or conceal alower support region of the vest brace 10. Alternatively, the belt orstrap 40 may function as an additional support or brace.

The lower support region may be defined by stitching above and below thelower support to secure the lower support to the vest 10. Alternatively,the lower support may be secured to the vest brace 10 using adhesive,rivets, pins, other fasteners, combination(s) thereof, etc. The lowersupport region may also include one or more pockets or compartments sewnonto the front of the vest brace 10. The upper and lower supports may bethe same or different from each other, and may comprise one or morematerials having a relatively high modulus of elasticity or Young'smodulus (e.g., 0.1 GPa or higher), such as high-density polyethylene, apolycarbonate, polytetrafluoroethylene (e.g., Teflon™) or another hardplastic, a hard rubber, wood, a ceramic, a metal, etc. A single supportin each of the upper and lower support regions may circumscribesubstantially the entire torso, or separate left and right supports cancontact the person's torso under the left and right arms and above theleft and right hips. Separate supports in each support region can befurther secured in place using vertical stitching on each side of thesupport.

The vest 10 may be fastened in the center by a zipper 24 or otherfastening device (e.g., buttons, hooks and loops [Velcro®], etc.). Thezipper 24 is fastened to the vest brace 10 by stitching. The vest 10includes two knobs 30 a/30 b that in some embodiments are mirror imagesof one another and that may act as control knobs to increase or decreasethe tension of the coils in the vest brace 10. The knobs 30 a/30 b arelocated in the abdominal region of the vest, one on each side of themidline. Alternatively, a cord or wire that slides through a resealableclamp on the outside of the vest brace 10 may increase or decrease thetension of the coils. Pulling the cord or wire away from the vest brace10 may increase the tension in the coils, and thus, decrease the forceon the upper and lower supports, and allowing the cord or wire toretract in the opposite direction (e.g., into the vest brace 10) maydecrease the tension in the coils and increase the force on the upperand lower supports.

FIG. 2 shows the internal coils or springs 50 a-k and tension controlmechanism of the vest brace 10 (FIG. 1) in detail. An upper end of eachcoil or spring 50 a-k is secured to a support (not shown) in the uppersupport region 22 of the vest brace 10, and the opposite (lower) end ofeach coil or spring 50 a-k is secured to a support (not shown) in thelower support region 45. The upper ends of the coils or springs 50 a-kare secured to the upper support by recessed eyelets (e.g., 52 b/52 c)that anchor the coils 50 a-k to the upper support. The lower ends of thecoils or springs 50 a-k are secured to the lower support in the lowersupport region 45 by similar or identical recessed eyelets (e.g., 52 a,52 d and 54).

First and second wires 35 a-b respectively run serially through thecoils or springs 50 a-e and 50 g-k and in parallel with each otherthrough the coil or spring 50 f. The wires 35 a-b also pass through thecorresponding eyelets (e.g., 52 a-d). The turns or curved portions(e.g., 37 a-b) of the wires 35 a-b are in the upper and lower supportregions 22 and 45. At the lower end of the coil or spring 50 f, thewires 35 a-b pass through an anchor eyelet 54. The wires 35 a-b aresecured to at least one of each other, the lower support and anunderside of the eyelet 54 to anchor an end of the wires 35 a-b to thelower support and to an end of the chain of springs or coils 50 a-k. Forexample, the end of the wires 35 a-b below the eyelet 54 may be securedby a bolt, a clamp, a knot, solder, or other fastening method. Theanchor eyelet 54 is anchored to the vest by a bolt or other fasteningdevice that can withstand the tension of the coils. Alternatively, theeyelet 54 can be in the upper support region 22.

In another embodiment, two ratchet wheel assemblies (which may be turnedwith a knob or a key) may be situated on either side of the joint. Forexample, one ratchet wheel assembly may engage a spring or springassembly that creates or provides an “upward” force, while the secondratchet wheel assembly creates or provides a “downward” force movingaway from the other force (e.g., using the same or a different spring orspring assembly). One end of the tensioning wires 35 a-b may be attachedto the ratchet wheels and/or control knobs 30 a/30 b with an adhesive(e.g., epoxy) or a fastener. The other end of the tensioning wires 35a-b may be fed through openings or eyelets in the opposing upper andlower supports (e.g., outside of the springs or coils 50 a-k), drawn inor fed through the spring or spring assembly, and tethered to a bushingon either side of the joint. As the ratchet wheel is turned, thetensioning wire becomes taut, and with each turn or partial turn, thebushing pushes against the spring or spring assembly that forces thesupport “upward” and away from the joint. The lower ratchet wheel isthen actuated (e.g., turned) to drive the spring or spring assembly“downward” and away from the joint opposite the force of the upperratchet wheel. Each ratchet wheel assembly may be adjusted until adesired comfort level is achieved. Some alternative embodiments includea single ratchet wheel that is adjusted, while the other assembly isreplaced with an anchor point that is not adjusted at all.

FIG. 2 also shows the control knobs 30 a-b around which the wires 35 a-bare wrapped. The knobs 30 a-b cause the coils 50 a/50 b to contract orshorten when rotated in a first direction (e.g., counter-clockwise forthe knob 30 a and clockwise for the knob 30 b) and extend or lengthenwhen rotated in the opposite direction. When the wires 35 a-b arecontracted or shortened, the force on the upper and lower supportsdecreases. Conversely, when the wires 35 a-b are extended or lengthened,the force on the upper and lower supports increases. The control knobs30 a-b may comprise conventional latching or locking rotary knobs towhich an end of each wire 35 a-b can be secured. The control knob 30 bmay be a mirror image of the control knob 30 a.

A further embodiment of the control knob 30 a-b may comprise aratchet-and-key type of design. The “ratchet” wheel may comprise aplurality of slotted teeth or apertures (e.g., at least 4, 6, 8, 10, 12,16, 20 or more teeth or apertures) and may be molded or extruded from asmall piece of material (e.g., plastic or metal). The wheel is then sewnor fastened into a recessed pocket above or below the coils 50 of thebrace 10. The tensioning wires 35 a-b may be attached to the wheel viaan adhesive (e.g., epoxy) or a fastener. The “key” may comprise anothermolded or extruded piece of material (e.g., plastic or metal) with keyslots that run longitudinally down the barrel. The barrel may have alength about equal to or slightly less than the length of the teeth ordepth of the apertures of the ratchet wheel. When the key is insertedinto the wheel, the apertures and key slots should be flush (e.g., matewith and/or be complementary to each other) so that upon turning, thekey can tighten or loosen the tensioning wires 35 a-b. When the desiredcomfort/tension level is reached, the wheel is locked into place and thekey is removed. The key can then be used to adjust the other ratchetwheel on the opposite side of the brace. The ratchet wheels may bemirror images of each other, although the same key may turn both ratchetwheels.

FIG. 3A shows an overlay of the vest brace 10 on a human skeleton 60from the back. FIG. 3B shows an overlay of the vest brace 10 on a humanskeleton as seen from the front, indicating the placement of the belt40, the knobs 30, and the coils 50 of the vest brace 10. The positioningof the coils 50 relative to a person's spine acts to extend the spinewhen the vest brace 10 is properly engaged and the springs or coils 50are extended or lengthened. The extension of the spine is achieved bythe spring mechanism of the brace and relieves compression of the discsbetween the vertebrae of the spine when the person wears the vest brace10, thus alleviating disc pressure by increasing space(s) 62 between thevertebrae (e.g., each of the vertebrae between the upper and lowersupports).

FIG. 4 shows a smart phone displaying an app adapted to control and/orprogram the present brace. The app may include controls such asautomated timers and/or programmable schedules that enable the wearer toapply the brace and/or make adjustments in the brace according to apredetermined schedule (e.g., as determined by a health careprofessional). The app also allows the user to create custom settingsfor the brace (e.g., coils can be set or adjusted individually, such asin the case of an asymmetrical injury or pain).

The brace may be modified for use in conjunction with the app, and whenin use, the tension on and/or force applied by each spring or coil maybe adjusted using the app. Various acceptable modifications aredescribed with respect to the hardware examples shown in FIGS. 5A-D.

FIG. 5A shows a series of coils or springs 50, which may be anchored toan upper support similarly to the springs or coils in the vest brace 10(FIG. 1). The lower end of each of the coils or springs 50 is secured toa screw 74 (FIG. 5C) operably connected to a servo motor 70. The screw74 is connected directly or indirectly through a threaded bracket orfastener 72 (FIG. 5C) to the lower end of the spring or coil 50 (FIG.5A). Alternatively, the end 75 of the screw 74 may push directly againstthe bottom of the spring 50. For example, the end 75 of the screw 74 maypush against a holder or bracket secured to or surrounding the bottom ofthe spring 50 and to the lower support (see FIG. 5B) to contract orextend the spring 50. Rotating the screw 74 in one direction (e.g.,counter-clockwise) may force the bracket/fastener 72 away from the motor70, and thus contract the spring 50 and reduce the distance between theupper and lower supports, lessening the force on the body parts incontact with the upper and lower supports. Reversing the rotationdirection of the screw extends the spring 50 and increases the distancebetween the upper and lower supports, thereby increasing the force onthe body parts that contact the upper and lower supports.

The modifications in FIG. 5A may also include a smart control module 76powered by a battery module 78. The servo motors 70 may also be poweredby the battery module 78. The smart control module 76 may include adriver board 80 (see FIG. 5D) in the vest that, in conjunction with theservo motors 70, effectively replace the function(s) of the controlknobs 30 a-b. The driver board 80 may be secured in the vest bystitching or riveting, and may control the servo motors 70, therebycontrolling the extension(s) and contraction(s) of the springs. In oneembodiment, the driver board 80 may include a wireless transceiveradapted to communicate with the smart phone (e.g., using a Bluetoothprotocol). The driver board 80 may have one or more of the followingcharacteristics, functions, and/or parameter values:

-   -   Wireless signal transmission and reception    -   An 8-bit to 32-bit microcontroller 82, running an ARM processor        core    -   Nonvolatile (e.g., flash) memory    -   An operating frequency of 10-100 MHz (e.g., 48 MHz)    -   Motor operating voltage of 5V-7.4V and a servo voltage of 5-7V    -   2-32 Servo motor channels    -   Servo minimum step: 1 us    -   DC motor channels that can include 2 or more external        connections to servo motors and/or step motors (which may        receive a digital signal)    -   A motor control frequency of 5-50 KHz (e.g., 25 KHz)    -   4-16 Analog control channels    -   A serial (e.g., two-wire) communication interface (e.g., IIC,        using TTL logic)    -   A communication speed of 115200-2400 Kps    -   2 kb-128 kb static RAM memory (which may be integrated or        packaged with the microcontroller)

An Exemplary Elbow Brace

FIG. 6 shows an embodiment 100 of the present brace adapted for a humanelbow. The elbow brace 100 includes an upper support region 112 thatsecures the brace 100 around the upper arm under the shoulder, and thatsecures and/or contains an upper support (not shown) therein. The uppersupport may comprise an elastic material. The brace 100 also includes alower support region 114 that secures the brace 100 to the lower armaround the wrist and contains a lower support (not shown) therein. Thebrace 100 includes an opening 130 around the elbow to allow for air flowand articulation (e.g., free movement) of the joint when wearing thebrace 100, without compressing the elbow. The brace 100 also includescoils 120 within layers of the cover material of the brace 100. Thecoils 120 may be located across the length of the arm from the uppersupport region 112 to the lower support region 114. Circumferentially,the coils 120 may be located along a forward-facing and arearward-facing surface, and/or on inner- and outer-facing surfaces. Insome embodiments, a single coil 120 provides sufficient relief from theadverse effects of joint compression, but two or more coils 120distributes the pressure on the upper and lower supports more evenlythan a single coil. The tension of the coils 120 may be adjusted with acontrol knob 110 located on the upper portion of the brace 100. Thecontrol knob 110 may also be located at the wrist end of the coil 120and/or on the inner surface of the brace 100 (e.g., the surface thatfaces the torso or to the front of the torso).

The coils 120 control the amount of decompression on the elbow joint byapplying opposing forces on the supports in the upper and lower supportregions 112 and 114 (e.g., forces that move or push the upper and lowersupport regions 112 and 114 away from the elbow). However, in thisembodiment, the coils 120 should have sufficient flexibility to allowthe arm to bend relatively easily at the elbow. The decompression of theelbow joint may improve mobility and alleviate joint pain. The controlknob 110 is attached to a wire in each of the coils 120 and allows theuser to lengthen or contract the brace 100 to his/her comfort level byturning the control knob 110. The control knob 110 may be attached tothe elbow brace 100 with stitching or other conventional fastening.

The material for the cover of the brace 100 may be specific to theparticular application of the brace. For example, the cover of the brace100 may comprise or be made of canvas or neoprene for civilian use,Kevlar® or graphene for military use, etc. In a further embodiment, theelbow brace 100 may have two control knobs 110 and four coils or springs120. One of the control knobs 110 may control the coils 120 along theupper arm, and the other of the control knobs 110 may control the coils120 along the lower arm, with each set of the coils 120 anchored to oneor more central eyelets in the brace 100 (e.g., in a central supportnear or adjacent to the elbow). This embodiment allows the coils 120 ofthe elbow brace 100 to completely traverse the four quadrants of theupper and lower arm, allowing for complete control of the elbow jointthrough the expansion and/or compression of the coils 120 in the brace100. This embodiment may include the coils 120 in the medial, lateral,anterior, and posterior portions of the elbow brace 100, and compressionon the elbow joint may be controlled minutely using differentcompression combinations of the above-mentioned coils 120 (e.g., usingcoils controlled by battery-operated servo motors, similar to thoseshown in FIGS. 5A-D).

An Exemplary Knee Brace

FIG. 7 shows an embodiment of a brace 200 adapted for the knee. Thebrace 200 includes an upper support region 212 that secures the brace200 around the thigh above the knee and a lower support region 214 thatsecures the brace 200 around the lower leg above the ankle. Each of theupper and lower support regions 212 and 214 includes a support enclosedtherein, as described herein. The support may be or comprise an elasticmaterial, in place of or in addition to one or more other materialsdescribed herein. There is an opening 230 around the knee that allowsfor air flow and articulation of the joint when wearing the knee brace200, while reducing or minimizing compression of the knee.

The brace 200 includes two coils 220 a/220 b within the cover material.Additionally, two coils similar or identical to the coils 220 a/220 bmay be on opposite sides of the brace 200. The length of and/or tensionin the coils 220 a/220 b can be adjusted using the control knob 210 atthe top of the brace. Additionally, there may be a control knob similaror identical to the control knob 210 at the bottom of the brace 200, inaddition to or in place of the control knob 210 at the top of the brace200. The coils 220 a/220 b may be fastened to the brace 200 bystitching, and the wire through the coils 220 a/220 b may be wrappedaround the control knob 210. By turning the control knob 210, the coils220 a/220 b can be tightened/shortened or loosened/lengthened to theuser's comfort level, and to alleviate pressure on the knee joint andligaments in the knee joint.

In a further embodiment, the knee brace 200 may include two controlknobs 210. One control knob 210 may be on the medial side of the leg andbe configured to control the coils 220 a/220 b on the medial side of thebrace 200, and one control knob 210 may be on the lateral side of theleg and be configured to control the coils on the lateral side of thebrace 200. Each set of the coils 220 a/220 b may be anchored to ananchoring eyelet so that the medial and lateral coils 220 a/220 b may betightened or adjusted independently of one another. This configurationof the coils allows for maximum control of the knee joint, leading toalleviation of the tension or pain in the knee joint due to compression.

An Exemplary Wrist Brace

FIG. 8 shows an embodiment of a brace 300 adapted for the wrist. Thebrace 300 includes an upper support region 312 that secures the brace300 around the forearm above the wrist and a lower support region 314that secures the brace 300 around the palm below the wrist. Each of theupper and lower support regions 212 and 214 includes a support enclosedtherein, as described herein. The support may be or comprise an elasticmaterial, in place of or in addition to one or more other materialsdescribed herein. There may be an opening (not shown) over or around thewrist that allows for air flow and articulation of the joint whenwearing the brace 300, while reducing or minimizing compression in thewrist.

The brace 300 includes two coils 320 a/320 b within the cover material.Additionally, two coils similar or identical to the coils 320 a/320 bmay be on opposite sides of the brace 300. The length of and/or tensionin the coils 320 a/320 b may be adjusted using the control knob 310 atthe top or forearm end of the brace 300. Additionally or alternatively,there may be a control knob similar or identical to the control knob 310at the bottom or hand end of the brace 300. The coils 320 a/320 b may befastened to the brace 300 by stitching, and the wire through the coils320 a/320 b may be wrapped around the control knob 310. By turning thecontrol knob 310, the coils 320 a/320 b may be tightened/shortened orloosened/lengthened to the user's comfort level, and to alleviatepressure on the wrist joint and ligaments in the wrist joint.

In a further embodiment, the wrist brace 300 may include two controlknobs 310. One control knob 310 may be on the medial side of the arm andbe configured to control the coils 320 a/320 b on the medial side of thebrace 300, and one control knob 310 may be on the lateral side of thearm and be configured to control the coils on the lateral side of thebrace 300. Alternatively, one control knob 310 may be on the ventralside of the arm and be configured to control the coils 320 a/320 b onthe ventral side of the brace 300, and one control knob 310 may be onthe dorsal side of the arm and be configured to control the coils on thedorsal side of the brace 300. Each set of the coils 320 a/320 b may beanchored to an anchoring eyelet so that the coils 320 a/320 b may betightened or adjusted independently of one another. This configurationof the coils allows for maximum control of the wrist joint, leading toalleviation of the tension or pain in the wrist joint due tocompression.

An Exemplary Ankle Brace

FIG. 9 shows an embodiment of a brace 400 adapted for the ankle. Thebrace 400 includes an upper support region 412 that secures the brace400 around the shin above the ankle and a lower support region 414 thatsecures the brace 400 around the midfoot below the ankle. Each of theupper and lower support regions 412 and 414 includes a support enclosedtherein, as described herein. The support may be or comprise an elasticmaterial, in place of or in addition to one or more other materialsdescribed herein. There may be an opening 430 around the heel thatallows for air flow and articulation of the ankle joint when wearing thebrace 400, while reducing or minimizing compression of the ankle.

The brace 400 includes two coils 420 a/420 b within the cover material,on the lateral side of the brace (as shown). Additionally, two coilssimilar or identical to the coils 420 a/420 b may be on an opposite(e.g., medial) side of the brace 400. The length of and/or tension inthe coils 420 a/420 b may be adjusted using the control knob 410 at thetop of the brace 400. Additionally or alternatively, there may be acontrol knob similar or identical to the control knob 410 at the bottomof the brace 400, but a control knob at the foot end of the brace 400may be disfavored due to a desire of many users to wear footwear such asshoes that may block access to the knob or cause discomfort due topressure on the control knob. The coils 420 a/420 b may be fastened tothe brace 400 by stitching, and the wire through the coils 420 a/420 bmay be wrapped around the control knob 410. By turning the control knob410, the coils 420 a/420 b may be tightened/shortened orloosened/lengthened to the user's comfort level, and to alleviatepressure on the ankle joint and ligaments in the ankle joint.

In a further embodiment, the ankle brace 400 may include two controlknobs 410 One control knob 410 may be on the medial side of the shin andbe configured to control the coils 420 a/420 b on the medial side of thebrace 400, and one control knob 410 may be on the lateral side of theshin (e.g., as shown) and be configured to control the coils on thelateral side of the brace 400. Each set of the coils 420 a/420 b may beanchored to an anchoring eyelet so that the medial and lateral coils 420a/420 b may be tightened or adjusted independently of one another.

An Exemplary Neck Brace

FIGS. 10A and 10B show and embodiment of a brace 500 adapted for theneck. FIG. 10A shows the brace 500 from the front side, and FIG. 10Bshows the brace 500 from the back or rear side. For clarity, the coveris omitted. The brace 500 may alleviate compression of the cervicalvertebrae (e.g., the vertebrae of the spine in the neck).

The neck brace 500 may include an upper support region having an uppersupport 512 at or near the top of the neck (e.g., slightly below or atthe base of the skull and/or the underside of the chin or lower jaw),and a lower support region having a lower support 514 at or near thebottom of the neck (e.g., slightly above or on the collar bone and/ortrapezius muscle). The upper and lower supports 512 and 514 secure theneck brace 500 to the neck of the user. The upper and lower supports 512and 514 are generally (but not necessarily) separate from each other. Insome embodiments, the upper and lower supports 512 and 514 may beattached to a cover and/or substrate of the neck brace 500 by stitching.

The neck brace 500 may include coils or springs 520 a-d configured tolengthen the space between the upper and lower supports 512 and 514 andrelieve compression between cervical vertebrae. Wires 508 a-d may berespectively attached to the coils or springs 520 a-d (e.g., ends of thecoils or springs 520 a-d) and may be controlled by control knobs 510 a-dto lengthen or contract the coils or springs 520 a-d. In otherembodiments, the tension in the coils or springs 520 a-d may becontrolled by a motor, in turn controlled by a control module andpowered by a battery module (e.g., as shown in FIG. 5A). There may be anadjustment knob 530 a at an interface of the upper support 512 (e.g.,where ends of the upper support 512 are joined or connected) and anadditional adjustment knob 530 b at an interface of the lower support514 (e.g., where ends of the lower support 514 are joined or connected).The upper and lower supports 512 and 514 may include a clasping orconnecting mechanism (not shown, but which may comprise tabs and/orhooks at one end with matching or mating slots, ridges and/or holes atthe other end), and the adjustment knobs 530 a-b may tighten or loosenthe supports 512 and 514 by controlling the clasping mechanism (e.g.,its tightness, looseness, the particular slot, ridge and/or hole intowhich the matching connector is joined or connected, etc.).Alternatively, the adjustment knobs 530 a-b may control wires or otherstructures (not shown) that circumscribe the supports 512 and 514. Thus,the adjustment knobs 530 a-b may tighten or loosen the supports 512 and514, and thus indirectly control the tension on the springs or coils 520a-d (tightening may reduce the tension, loosening may increase thetension).

A Method of Manufacturing a Brace

In one aspect, the present invention relates to a method ofmanufacturing a brace as described herein. At a first step, two or moresupports configured to contact body parts on opposite sides or ends ofone or more joints when the brace is in use may be formed on, placed in,etc., a sleeve, vest, or cover for the brace, generally at the end ofthe sleeve, vest or cover. The supports may be attached to the brace bystitching, rivets or other fasteners, adhesive, etc. At a second step,one or more force application mechanisms that apply a controllable forceto the supports in opposite directions (e.g., a tensile force) toalleviate compression in the one or more joints may be attached to thesupports. At a third step (or, alternatively, before the first step), acover (sleeve, vest, etc.) configured to secure a position of each ofthe supports in the brace may be formed. The cover, sleeve, vest, etc.,may be formed by sewing, assembling, fastening, etc., one or morecomponents thereof to one or more other components thereof. The cover,sleeve, vest, etc., may be further configured to enclose the forceapplication mechanism(s). A cushion or padding covering at least part ofeach of the supports may be attached to the supports and/or cover. Thecushion or padding may be configured to distribute the controllableforce across a larger area of the body part(s) contacted by acorresponding support.

The force application mechanism(s) may comprise one or more (e.g., aplurality of) coils or springs coupled to or connected between (i) atleast a first one of the supports on a first side or end of the joint(s)and (ii) at least a second one of the supports on a second side or endof the joint(s) opposite from the first side or end. A tension controlmechanism configured to change or maintain a tension of each of theplurality of coils may be attached to one, some or all of the coils orsprings. The tension control mechanism may comprise one or more wires orcables through the plurality of coils or springs, and a knob or strapoperably connected to the wire(s) or cable(s), the knob or strap beingconfigured to control a length of the wire(s) or cable(s).Alternatively, the tension control mechanism may comprise (i) anactuator configured to change or maintain a length of at least one ofthe coils or springs, and (ii) a motor operably connected to andconfigured to control a position of the actuator.

Component Manufacturing of a Brace

The following method of manufacturing may be exemplified for making theknee brace, but it is not limited thereto. The methods and materialsused in this process may be used to make other embodiments of theinvention. The following components may be manufactured usingindustry-accepted standard techniques and materials. Componentconfigurations may include:

-   -   Plastic wheel retainer(s)    -   Plastic ratchet wheel(s)    -   Removable plastic turn key(s)    -   Tensioning wire(s) or ratchet arms    -   Compression spring(s)

Plastic Wheel Retainer:

The retainer houses the ratchet wheel and may comprise aninjection-molded or similarly processed high density polyethylene (HDPE)plastic. It may have a circular or cylindrical shape (e.g., about 10-50mm in diameter) and a flange at one end thereof (e.g., adapted forattachment to the cover or frame of the brace). In one example, theretainer can be glued or stitched into a recess and/or pocket of thebrace.

Plastic Ratchet Wheel:

The ratchet wheel may comprise injection-molded or similarly processedHDPE, similar to the retainer. The outer circumference of the wheel mayhave several (e.g., 6-10) conical or cylindrical teeth slightly angledin a predetermined direction. The ratchet wheel may further include aninner hole with several (4-5) recessed apertures or grooves. Thetensioning wire is attached to the body of the wheel. The wheel may alsohave two release pins on an outer edge thereof.

Control Knob:

The control knob may comprise injection-molded high-densitypolypropylene. The knob may have a diameter of 10-40 mm. The knob mayinclude a spoke to which the tension wire is attached (e.g., using anadhesive such as a solder or an epoxy). The face of the knob may includean adhesively-attached or printed label with tick marks that indicate acorresponding level or intensity of actuation or tension in the tensionwire. The more the knob is turned, the more compressive the springbecomes, and the lower the force applied to the opposing supports. Forexample, the tick marks may indicate the level of compressionnumerically (e.g., where a number such as “1” indicates the greatestforce, and a number such as “5” or “10” indicates the least force).

Plastic Turn-Key:

The turn-key may also comprise injection-molded or similarly processedHDPE. The key generally consists of a single molded piece, and may havea hollow body and/or a key head with two or more flanged wings. The keybody may have a number of (e.g., 4-5) abutments that run longitudinallyalong the sides of the body. The number and dimensions of the abutmentsgenerally complement the grooves or apertures in the inner hole (e.g.,the “keyhole”) of the ratchet wheel so that when the key is insertedinto the hole in the ratchet wheel, the abutments mate with and/or sitflush against the grooves or apertures. Upon correct insertion of thekey body into the ratchet wheel, the operator or user can then torquethe key to the desired level of tension.

In an alternative method of construction shown in FIGS. 11A-B, a lever630 attached to the ratchet wheel behind control knob 610 can apply aforce to two bars or counter-supports 640 a-b attached to bushings orshoulder washers 635 a-d at inner ends of the springs or coils 620 a-d.The outer ends of the springs or coils 620 a-d are connected to thebrace supports (not shown). The springs or coils 620 a-d may be enclosedin sleeves in the brace. There may be only a single spring or coil 620attached or coupled to each bar 640 a-b, or more than two springs orcoils 620. The bars or counter-supports 640 a-b have a long axis that isperpendicular to the axis of the springs or coils 620 a-d. The lever 630may be fixedly attached at the center to the control knob 610 (e.g., viasolder, a fastener, or integration such as injection molding) androtatingly attached at each end to one of the bars or counter-supports640 a-b (e.g., with a set screw, peg-and-hone connection, rivet, etc.).In the neutral position (FIG. 11A), the bars or counter-supports 640 a-blie horizontally against one another. As the knob 610 is turned, thelever 630 drives the two bars or counter-supports 640 a-b apart (FIG.11B), compressing the spring on either side of the joint against thebrace support and lessening the pressure in and around the joint. Thelonger the lever 630, the greater the compressive force. However, thedistance by which the springs 620 a-d compress as the control knob 610is turned may change in proportion to the sine of the angle of the lever630 relative to the neutral position of the bars 640 a-b.

Tensioning Wire:

The tensioning wire can be attached directly to the ratchet wheel. Thewire preferably has a minimum diameter of 0.375 mm. The wire thicknessmay be determined by the force needed to contract or expand thespring(s) or coil(s). Ideally, the wire can be attached to the ratchetwheel with either a standard epoxy or a fastener.

Compression Spring:

The compression spring or coil may have a minimum compressive force of 1kg. The spring or coil should be completely or substantially completelyrestorative (e.g., compress or expand and return to a nominal,uncompressed position).

An Exemplary Method of Supporting and/or Stabilizing One or More Joints

In yet another aspect, the present invention relates to a method ofsupporting and/or stabilizing one or more joints (e.g., in a human oranimal body). At a first step, a brace may be secured around thejoint(s), the brace comprising (i) two or more supports configured tocontact parts of the body on opposite sides or ends of the joint(s) whenthe brace is in use and (ii) one or more force application mechanismsthat apply a controllable force to the supports in opposite directionsto alleviate compression in the joint(s). At a second step, a sufficientforce may be applied to the supports using the force applicationmechanism(s) to alleviate the compression in the joint(s). The brace mayfurther comprise a cover configured to enclose the supports and/or forceapplication mechanism(s). The method may further include distributingthe controllable force across an area of the body part(s) contacted by acorresponding support with a cushion or padding covering at least partof the support. The force application mechanism(s) may comprise one ormore (e.g., a plurality of) coils as described above. A tension of eachof the coils may be changed or maintained with a tension controlmechanism as described herein.

CONCLUSION

The present invention relates to a brace that advantageously providesgreater relief to targeted joint(s) through the use of coils, springs orother mechanisms that apply opposing forces to supports on oppositesides of the targeted joint(s), and that can be adjusted (e.g., by theuser) to achieve greater comfort. The present brace is generally lessbulky than traditional braces, enabling daily use during a multitude ofactivities. Individuals with chronic back pain, athletes, and those whospend long hours at a desk or driving a vehicle may find long-termrelief from use of the present invention.

The foregoing descriptions of specific embodiments of the presentinvention have been presented for purposes of illustration anddescription. They are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit theinvention to the precise forms disclosed, and obviously manymodifications and variations are possible in light of the aboveteaching. The embodiments were chosen and described in order to bestexplain the principles of the invention and its practical application,to thereby enable others skilled in the art to best utilize theinvention and various embodiments with various modifications as aresuited to the particular use contemplated.

We claim:
 1. An apparatus, comprising: two or more supports, configuredto contact body parts on opposite sides or ends of one or more jointswhen the brace is in use; and one or more force application mechanismsthat apply a controllable force to the two or more supports in oppositedirections to alleviate compression in the one or more joints.
 2. Theapparatus of claim 1, wherein the one or more force applicationmechanisms comprises a plurality of springs or coils coupled to orconnected between (i) at least a first one of the two or more supportson a first side or end of the one or more joints and (ii) at least asecond one of the two or more supports on a second side or end of theone or more joints opposite from the first side or end.
 3. The apparatusof claim 2, further comprising a tension control mechanism configured tochange or maintain a tension of each of the plurality of springs orcoils.
 4. The apparatus of claim 3, wherein the tension controlmechanism comprises: one or more wires or cables through the pluralityof springs or coils; and a knob or strap operably connected to the oneor more wires or cables, the knob or strap being configured to control alength of the one or more wires or cables.
 5. The apparatus of claim 3,wherein the tension control mechanism comprises: an actuator configuredto change or maintain a length of at least one of the plurality ofsprings or coils; and a motor operably connected to and configured tocontrol a position of the actuator.
 6. The apparatus of claim 5, furthercomprising a microcontroller configured to control the motor.
 7. Theapparatus of claim 6, further comprising a memory operably connected tothe microcontroller, wherein the memory stores a program configured tooperate the motor.
 8. The apparatus of claim 6, further comprising awireless receiver operably connected to the microcontroller, configuredto receive one or more instructions from a user-operated wirelesstransmitter.
 9. The apparatus of claim 5, further comprising a batteryconfigured to provide power to the motor.
 10. The apparatus of claim 1,further comprising a cover configured to secure a position of each ofthe two or more supports.
 11. The apparatus of claim 6, wherein thecover is further configured to enclose the one or more force applicationmechanisms.
 12. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising a cushionor padding covering at least part of one of the two or more supports,the cushion or padding being configured to distribute the controllableforce across an area of the body part(s) contacted by a correspondingsupport.
 13. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising one or morecushions or pads covering at least part of each of the two or moresupports.
 14. A method of manufacturing a brace, comprising: forming acover configured to secure a position of each of two or more supports inthe brace; inserting or attaching the two or more supports in the cover,the two or more supports being configured to contact body parts onopposite sides or ends of one or more joints when the brace is in use;and attaching one or more force application mechanisms to the two ormore supports, wherein the one or more force application mechanismsapply a controllable force to the two or more supports in oppositedirections to alleviate compression in the one or more joints.
 15. Themethod of claim 14, wherein the one or more force application mechanismscomprises a plurality of springs or coils coupled to or connectedbetween (i) at least a first one of the two or more supports on a firstside or end of the one or more joints and (ii) at least a second one ofthe two or more supports on a second side or end of the one or morejoints opposite from the first side or end.
 16. The method of claim 15,further comprising attaching one or more tension control mechanismsconfigured to change or maintain a tension of the plurality of springsor coils, wherein the tension control mechanism comprises: one or morewires or cables through the plurality of springs or coils, and a knob orstrap operably connected to the one or more wires or cables, the knob orstrap being configured to control a length of the one or more wires orcables; or an actuator configured to change or maintain a length of atleast one of the plurality of springs or coils, and a motor operablyconnected to and configured to control a position of the actuator. 17.The method of claim 14, further comprising adding a cushion or paddingcovering at least part of each of the two or more supports, the cushionor padding being configured to distribute the controllable force acrossa larger area of the body part(s) contacted by a corresponding support.18. A method of supporting and/or stabilizing one or more joints,comprising: securing a brace around the joint, the brace comprising (i)two or more supports configured to contact body parts on opposite sidesor ends of the one or more joints when the brace is in use and (ii) oneor more force application mechanisms that apply a controllable force tothe two or more supports in opposite directions to alleviate compressionin the one or more joints; and applying a sufficient force to the two ormore supports using the one or more force application mechanisms toalleviate the compression in the one or more joints.
 19. The method ofclaim 18, wherein the one or more force application mechanisms comprisesa plurality of springs or coils coupled to or connected between (i) atleast a first one of the two or more supports on a first side or end ofthe one or more joints and (ii) at least a second one of the two or moresupports on a second side or end of the one or more joints opposite fromthe first side or end.
 20. The method of claim 19, wherein applying thesufficient force comprises changing or maintaining a tension of theplurality of springs or coils with one or more tension controlmechanisms, each of the one or more tension control mechanismscomprising (i) an actuator configured to change or maintain a length ofat least one of the plurality of springs or coils, and (ii) a motoroperably connected to and configured to control a position of theactuator.